The Ministry of Interior of Slovakia has prepared a package of changes to the law on the stay of foreigners. The reform, which awaits discussion by the socio-economic council under the government, aims to simplify bureaucratic procedures using AI, strengthen requirements for businessmen, set new deadlines for holders of temporary protection, and more.
Digitalization and Visa Innovations
Slovakia plans to move most migration processes online, and artificial intelligence will partially handle document verification.
Key changes in visa policy:
National visas will be issued for 120 days instead of the current 90.
The visa sticker will be detached from a specific employer, making it easier to change jobs.
Despite digitalization, submitting an application will still require the applicant to appear in person in most cases.
New Rules for Ukrainians: What After 2027?
The draft law outlines clear time limits for refugees from Ukraine. Automatic extension of temporary protection status is foreseen until June 30, 2027.
After this date, a one-year transition period will be introduced. During this time, Ukrainians will be able to obtain a standard residence permit (pobyt) through a simplified procedure. The main condition is to have stayed in the country for at least six months with a specific purpose (work, study, etc.) before submitting the documents.
Filter for Businessmen and Employees
Rules are becoming stricter for foreign entrepreneurs. Now, migration police will pay attention not only to net profit but also to gross taxable income and the absence of any debts to the budget. Even minimal debts for taxes or social contributions can lead to the annulment of a residence permit.
For employed workers, limits are set for staying without work:
Up to 3 months – if the foreigner has lived in the country for less than 2 years.
Up to 6 months – for those who have lived for more than 2 years.
Language and Citizenship
Obtaining long-term residence will become slightly easier in terms of the language barrier. The list of institutions where one can take a Slovak language exam will expand to include universities and language schools. Graduates of Slovak schools (with at least 2 years of study) and individuals with health conditions will be exempt from the exam.
The reform will also affect the citizenship law. Descendants of former citizens of Czechoslovakia will be able to obtain a Slovak passport without mandatory prior residence in the country.
Strengthening Border Security
Along with service improvements, the Ministry of Interior is strengthening control. Police will have the right to check mobile phones and electronic devices of foreigners to identify illegal migration routes. In addition, carriers will be obliged to check passengers' documents (passports, visas, and ETIAS permits) more thoroughly before crossing the EU border.
